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How to make the first kiss count

This article was taken from the February 2012 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content bysubscribing online.

Sheril Kirshenbaum is a research scientist and the author of

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The Science of Kissing. She explains the empirical and neurological observations that can help lead to improved osculation for you and your loved one. After all, you only get one chance to make a good first impression, so pay attention and pucker up.

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When both partners take time to build a bond before their lips even meet, it can boost the " love hormone" oxytocin. This encourages a sense of attachment and builds an early emotional bond.

Play up your assets

For women, lipstick and plumping serums were designed for a reason -- men respond to full, rosy lips. More than just cultural practice, full lips may indicate higher oestrogen levels and fertility.

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Foster anticipation

Anticipating something makes obtaining it more satisfying -- partly due to the neurotransmitter dopamine. So, if you dream about how the kiss will happen, the actual moment is likely to feel more romantic.

Stay sober

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Kissing can trigger the release of chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin which affect the way we feel. Additional substances -- such as alcohol -- stop us accurately interpreting the experience.

Oral hygiene matters Scent and taste make a difference in a good kiss -- particularly to women who, generally, have a stronger sense of smell than men. Brush and floss every day, and keep mints or gum handy so you'll be prepared.

Pick the moment

Humans associate a good kiss with trust, so wait until it feels comfortable. Never pressure a partner, as it can raise the "stress" hormone cortisol. Kissing and cortisol don't make good chemistry.

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Don't worry

Kissing is a perfect example of nature and nurture complementing one other; we have an instinctive drive to connect this way but its expression is shaped by our culture and experiences.

Keep kissing

A German study in the 80s found men who kissed their wives before work lived five years longer than peers who didn't. It's thought the kissers had a positive attitude, leading to a healthier lifestyle.